6 Best ADSL Modem Routers in 2020 (Reviews and Guide)

The best gift from technology to your home has to be ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) if you live in an area with low-market cable TV penetration.

 If you struggle to access the best cable TV, ADSL or DSL is the next best alternative. It’s not only the biggest completion for leading cable TV networks but also affordable and occupies a niche place within the entire internet ecosystem.

Now, DSL doesn’t come close to the current market’s Gigabit-level speeds most users get to enjoy because its operation is based on typical copper phone lines. However, DSL’s mode of operation makes it the best option for people living in areas not covered by advanced broadband.

For the performance you look forward to, the modems work in tandem with routers, hence a one-step upgrade process.

Having lived in the countryside for a huge chunk of my life, and the fact that I still prefer spending time away from the city, I have had my share of troubles when it comes to finding the best DSL modem routers.

This review is my way of saving you from hours searching for what would be the best ADSL modem-router, while also saving you time otherwise spent searching for the best options. Keep reading to find out which modem-routers work best for ADSL.

Comparison Table: Best ADSL Modem Router

Best ADSL Modem Router	Best For	Modem Features	WiFi Speed/ Protocol	Price
NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 Cable Modem WiFi Router Combo	All-in-One Internet Solution	DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 channel bonding	3200Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
ARRIS Surfboard SBG10 Cable Modem & AC1600 Dual Band WiFi Router	Most Affordable Option	DOCSIS 3.0 16X4 channel bonding	1600Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
NETGEAR 4G LTE Broadband Modem LB2120 With 2 Gigabit Ethernet Ports	Best LTE Modem-Router System for Instant Broadband Connection	4G LTE	150Mbps	Check Price
CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T 802.11AC Modem Route	Best Ultra-Broadband	VDSL2 integration Bonded	256Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
MOTOROLA MG7540 16×4 Cable Modem Plus AC1600 Router	High-Speed Combo Set	DOCSIS 3.0 686Mbps 16×4 channel bonding	1600Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price
MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2 Modem-Router	Best Non-Bonded VDSL2/ ADSL2 Modem-Router Combo	VDSL2/ADSL2+ Modem	1600Mbps 802.11ac	Check Price

 

Best ADSL Modem Routers on the Market Today

1. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7800 Cable ModemWiFi Router Combo – All-in-One Internet Solution

While the Netgear Nighthawk range of modem-routers were designed for use with the CenturyLink’s network, this device has undergone numerous upgrades, and it’s now compatible with a wide range of top-of-the-line digital subscriber line packages. Think of Netgear Nighthawk as the all-in-one internet solution promising the best connectivity and advanced security protection from all attacks, including DDoS attacks.

Boasting compatibility with all the leading cable providers such as Cox, XFinity by Comcast, and Spectrum, this Netgear Nighthawk C7800 modem-router combo could be the best pick for you.

With a high cable speed plan as high as 2Gbps and superior WiFi performance, this router is easily one of the best picks on the market. It boasts an extensive coverage up to 3000sq. Ft and allows connection for up to 45 devices on the 3200Mbps WiFi router system.

Its performance is further enhanced by the 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and the two super hi-speed USB 3.0 ports, which ensure the fastest, most reliable wired connections. With these functions, you get to enjoy ultra-high internet speeds for multi-player gaming and 4k HD streaming.

But the biggest power element in this modem-router combo has to be the DOCSIS 3.1 technology, a function that makes it possible for cable companies to easily compete with new internet providers on the market through the provision of the best-bundled internet services at either comparable or faster speeds.

By supporting even higher data rates across the existing networks, DOCSIS support subscribers’ demand for the best new and improved broadband services. Simply put, you get to enjoy the kind of content you love, regardless of where you are.

This device further benefits from the range-boosting Beamforming+ technology, along with the amplified antennas. Beamforming technology allows for an array of router antennas to be steered for transmission in a specific direction, hence an increase in the precision level of the WiFi signals.

The incorporated security features include parental controls, along with support for WPA, WEP, and WPA2 security protocols.

Pros

• Easy installation
• The modem-router combo design saves a good amount of bucks
• Push-buttons for easy connection to WiFi
• High-speed 2Gbps system for heavy streaming and gaming
• DOCSIS 3.1 system enhances its speed and reliability
• 4 Gigabit ports enhance its performance
• Great parental controls
• Guest Access system/WiFi protected access, and Double WiFi protection
• Incredible DDoS Attacks protection system

Cons

• Expensive
• Bulky

View price on Amazon

2. ARRIS Surfboard SBG10 Cable Modem & AC1600 Dual Band WiFi Router – Most Affordable Option

Approved for use with networks such as Cox, Xfinity,y, and Spectrum, among other leading networks, this combo modem-router Arris Surfboard SBG10 system is one of the best modem-router combos on the market, and the best bit is that this combi is quite inexpensive. So, if you are looking for a reliable and affordable router-modem system, this is it.

To help you know why this device is highly rated, we’ll look at some of its features. For starters, this device is a 3-in-1 cable modem, WiFi router, and also a 2-port Gigabit Ethernet router that promises the best broadband connections at all times. It’s compatible with leading ISPs, including Spectrum, Cox, and XFinity, while also boasting 16 downstream and four upstream channels.

The modem further supports internet plans up to 300Mbps, while the WiFi router is an 802.11ac system that boasts top speeds of 1600Mbps. The two Ethernet ports (gigabit) enhance its overall performance and speeds for the wired connections.

The modem features DOCSIS 3.0 technology, essential for the optimization of internet performance and speeds. It allows for the addition of higher-bandwidth data transfers over the existing coaxial cable TV system.

Pros

• Great pricing
• Easy setup and network management
• Top modem speeds of 300Mbps and Router speeds of 1600Mbps
• It’s compatible with leading ISPs in the US
• 16X4 stream channels boost their performance
• Reliable security features

Cons

• Not future proof – runs on DOCSIS 3.0
• Not voice-compatible
• Lacks WPS button

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3. NETGEAR 4G LTE Broadband Modem LB2120 With 2 Gigabit Ethernet Ports – Best LTE Modem-Router System for Instant Broadband Connection

If you live in the countryside, you might have gotten used to the poor-quality broadband services, but that doesn’t have to be the case forever. There are numerous technologies on the market today, all designed to give you the best connection systems, and ADSL modem-routers is one of these technological advancements.,

Designed to work with AT&T along with alternate carriers, this LB2120 modem-router system gives you an automatic 4G LTE connection thanks to the built-in Gigabit WAN connection direct to the router, computer, TV, or Switch.

It’s easy to set up, and it boasts top speeds of up to 150Mbps and 50Mbps for downloads and uploads, respectively. It also supports 4G and 3G systems, and works with most GSM carriers, except for Verizon and Sprint.

It comes with two reliable TS-9 connectors that allow for connection with 4G/3G antennas, for the overall improvement of performance.

It also boasts the most reliable backup source when there is no broadband connection.

Pros

• Instant broadband connection
• Allows for the use of LTE as the primary or the backup internet connection
• High-speed internet throughput
• Top speeds of 150Mbps for gaming and streaming
• Simple connectivity
• It works great
• Affordable
• Fail-safe 4G/3G connections

Cons

• You need your SIM activated for Verizon

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4. CenturyLink Prism TV Technicolor C2100T 802.11AC Modem Router – Best Ultra-Broadband

Beautifully designed with a small footprint, this CenturyLink Prism Modem-Router combo could be exactly what you have been missing in your home.

It comes fitted with all the features you need for the best connectivity in poor broadband connectivity areas. Some of these features include the 802.11ac router system, which offers high and stable internet speeds on the 2.4GHz and the 5GHz band systems. The dual-band system means ease of browsing and streaming/ gaming on the respective bands.

With support for concurrent dual-band WiFi systems – 2.4GHz on the IEEE 802.11n protocol and 802.11ac on the 5GHz band, this modem-router system is one of the most powerful and also future-proof gateways for high-speed streaming.

It has an integrated wireless video bridge that features a versatile/ robust chipset, along with 4×4 antennas, hence support for multiple HD TV channels on the 5GHz band. You might also like its advanced architecture that supports and guarantees very low-packet error rates at all times on the wireless system, hence the smoothest, flicker-free streaming. And for uninterrupted transmissions of all your data services, you have the 2.4GHz 802.11n band.

This device further boasts the best WAN bandwidth optimized systems, and you will get the most out of your network by reusing the existing copper wiring, hence a larger coverage, specifically from a single DSLAM. You might also like its future-proof and reliable triple-play service gateway that allows for the best VDSL2 connectivity, hence the best VoIP functions for residential use. Its VDSL2 integration is a big win because it means that the modem-router system supports Bonded ADSL2+ and Bonded VDSL2 (to the 17a profile).

The other impressive feature of this CenturyLink Prism C2100T is its ultra-broadband design, designed to speed up the growth of LAN and WAN traffic, allowing operators to find the best ultra-high-speed networks, solving bandwidth issues. In this case, this C2100T’s VSDL2 works in tandem with the Gigabit Ethernet port, enabling super-high-bandwidth, hence the best quality data, voice, and video. To make all these possible, there are three technologies incorporated into this device – bonding, G.vector, and G.inp (impulse noise protection).

Bonding increases the capacity of the copper wiring’s network, creating one large virtual pipe; G.vector cancels crosstalk noise, hence peak-performance for each line in the binder, while G.inp eliminates errors in the DSL connection for high-quality video transmissions at all times.

The other advanced feature incorporated into this modem-router is QoS (Quality of Service) and QoE (Quality of Experience), for high transfer speeds, reduced complexity.

You might also like it because it supports VoIP functions, and it is IPv6-enabled. And the HomePNA 3.1 adapter allowing for premium-level in-home networking, hence the distribution of high-quality video and data.

Pros

• Works with bonded vdsl2
• Easy management
• Ecofriendly
• Ease of use
• Premium in-home networking from HomePNA 3.1 adapter
• Ultimate ultra-broadband design
• VoIP and IPv6-enabled
• High streaming speeds up to 256Mbps
• Advanced QoS
• Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired connection

Cons

• Expect some lags
• Only works with copper lines/ DSL connections

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5. MOTOROLA MG7540 16×4 Cable Modem Plus AC1600 Router – High-Speed Combo Set

Motorola is a big brand name in the world of modem-router combos, and this MG7540 is one of the best products by the brand. One of the features that makes it an excellent choice for home use in poor broadband areas and other residential areas is its advanced design that works well with leading providers like XFinity, Spectrum, and Cox, among others.

And there is a lot more beyond compatibility. For starters, it boasts the 16×4 streaming model that gives you 16 download and four upload streams, for improved performance. Then you have the DOCSIS system, which is responsible for the high speeds of up to 686Mbps, as well as the dual-band gigabit router design, which allows for high WiFi speeds of up to 1600Mbs. These features all work together to ensure the best streaming performance and overall reliability.

This 16X4 cable modem-router comes with 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports (GigE), and it’s designed for use with cable services offering services at top speeds of up to 375Mbps. The broadband Cable Modem Chipset in the device offers an extra security layer, which means that you won’t have to worry about Denial of Service Attacks (DDoS).

Then you have the router’s design, which allows it to work on the DFS WiFi frequencies, making this system less vulnerable to interference. It features the Beamforming technology on the 2.4 and 5GHz bands, which focuses its signals on the wireless clients for the best performance and range improvement.

You might also like it because it integrates seamlessly with the cable and router system to give you the most reliable internet connection while reducing unwieldy wiring and clutter from the power adapters.

And for the protection of your investment, it comes with a rugged circuit that protects from lightning and power surges.

Pros

• Max WiFi speeds of 1600Mbps
• Modem’s top-speed of at least 300Mbps
• It saves you some bucks in the long run
• Comes with a 2-year warranty
• Compatible with most of the leading cable providers on the market
• Easy setup and use
• Allows for multi-device compatibility
• Beamforming for focused wireless signals
• DOCSIS for high-speed performance
• Dual-band design for reduced network congestion
• 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections

Cons

• Issues with 5GHz band
• No app for parental controls

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6. MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2 Modem-Router – Best Non-Bonded VDSL2/ ADSL2 Modem-RouterCombo

The other modem-router from Motorola is this MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2, a non-bonded, non-vectoring DSL device that promises reliable performance for Frontier along with other DSL service providers such as TDS Telecom, Windstream, or Fairpoint.

This device is designed to work in combination with the VDSL2 and ADSL2 plus the modem and AC1600 router to deliver high-speed internet speeds on WiFi and wired Ethernet devices.

It also boasts excellent performance thanks to the 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, USB 2.0 for file sharing, as well as robust firewalls, IPv4/ IPv6 support, VPN, and WPA/ WPA2 systems for the safest device and network connections.

It also boasts a clean and easy overall design, and the best part is that you wouldn’t have to worry about clutter from wires or the device taking up too much space.

Pros

• Easy installation
• High-speed performance
• Ease of use
• Surge and lightning protection
• Stable wireless connections
• Good range
• Great security features

Cons

• Single-band
• No DOCSIS support
• Compatibility issues

View Price on Amazon

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Choosing the best ADSL Modem-Router

While we all have varying tastes and needs around internet connections, we all need the best of these devices to enjoy good internet connectivity and to stay on top of things around the world. But these combo sets aren’t made the same, and some might cost you a lot in the future, which is why you need to be particular about the features of the set and what it has to offer.

In this section, we look at the details of ADSL and DSL modem-router combo sets and what you need to do or look out for when purchasing the modem router combo.

First things first…

What is a DSL Modem Router Combo?

ADSL refers to the best technological feature when it comes to high-speed voice and video transmissions to hokes, via the common copper telephone wires. Also called DSL, this feature represents the biggest competition to cable modems, with the DSL and Cable systems compared to each other depending on bandwidth or the amount of data transferable via a network.

The DSL modem involves an analog internet signal transmission via telephone lines to your house. Once the signal is in your house, those analog signals are then converted into a digital signal understood by your devices. This conversion takes place via a process referred to as demodulation by the modem. You also need the modem for the modulation of signals from your computer to the internet (digital to analog conversion of signals). The router then cones in, and it connects to your modem and your devices like phones and computers either through wired Ethernet ports connections or wirelessly via WiFi.

Therefore, the DSL modem-router combo is the internet unit connecting telephone lines to the internet, with the built-in modem and the router allowing for simultaneous internet connections to multiple devices.

What to look for in an ADSL/ DSL Modem Router Combo?

• High internet speeds support – For high internet speeds, you need a modem-router combo with the fastest internet gigabit plans.
• Upgradeability – is the device future-proof or easily upgradeable to support future technologies and functions.
• Technologies – some of the best features you need in a modem router combo set lie in advanced technological features. Look out for things like Beamforming, DOCSIS, QoS, bonding, along with any other features that boost the device’s performance.
• Security protocols – You need to look out for a device designed to offer safe and secure connections at all times. Think of WEP, WPA, WPA2, and VPN, among others.

Finally, make sure that the setup and the top speeds offered by the router are adequate for your gaming, streaming, or browsing needs.

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FAQs

Can you make your DSL Faster?

Yes. With low internet speeds for the DSL system resulting from different factors, for example, router malfunction that causes overheating or overloading, you need to work on ways of reducing congestion by sending minimal data packets from many connected devices. Also, make sure that the combo set purchased has a ventilation system to prevent overheating. Doing these will increase DSL’s internet speeds.

Alternatively, you could upgrade your DSL infrastructure through the installation of ports splitters or a cats5 Ethernet cable.

How do I boost my DSL’s WiFi Signals?

You could either use powerline WiFi adaptors to amplify your wireless connections or change your wireless channel to curb congestion. You could invest in a more robust router or update the DSL infrastructure.

Do you need specific Routers for DSL connection?

No. You only need the best modem for effective demodulation. A router will only connect to the modem, amplifying internet supply to different devices.

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Conclusion

If you still rely on ADSL connections, either because you need to save by working with the low-budget ISPs or because you are waiting for Fiber installation in your location, the ADSL modem router combos above would be great options for you. There are numerous options on the market, but the features of the combos above make them the best options on the market for you.